Former Billy Beane assistant inspired Jonah Hill's character in movie

Paul DePodesta began his baseball career as an intern with the Cleveland Indians in 1996 and went on to gain a measure of fame through his work in Oakland alongside general manager Billy Beane. (LM Otero/Associated Press)

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Owner Jimmy Haslam has brought in Paul DePodesta, a baseball executive and analytics expert with 20 years of major league experience, to be the NFL team's new chief strategy officer.

Haslam, who fired coach Mike Pettine and general manager Ray Farmer on Sunday night following a 3-13 season, pulled DePodesta away from the New York Mets to help his organization with decision making. DePodesta, a longtime aide to Sandy Alderson, had been the Mets' vice-president of player development and amateur scouting.

"We are fortunate to bring in Paul, an extremely talented, highly respected sports executive who will add a critical dimension to our front office," Haslam said. "His approach and ambition to find the best pathways for organizational success transcend one specific sport and his experience as a high level sports executive make him a terrific addition to the Cleveland Browns. While we are excited about what Paul will provide our organization, we remain fully focused on the critical task of identifying the right head coach and a top talent evaluator who will provide the football expertise needed to be successful."

DePodesta began his baseball career as an intern with the Indians in 1996 and became an advance scout and special assistant to the general manager. He worked in Oakland alongside GM Billy Beane, whose Moneyball strategies — glamourized in the book and movie of the same title — helped the Athletics overcome budget constraints and win.

In the film, actor Jonah Hill's character was based on DePodesta.

"Cleveland and football have always held a special place in my heart," said DePodesta. "It was 20 years ago this month, after pursing my first love of football and looking at every possible job in the NFL, that I got the biggest break I could imagine — a job offer from the AL champion Cleveland Indians. As excited as I was then, I am even more excited now to return to Cleveland and to try to help the Browns.

"My focus is to bring whatever experience and perspective I can to collaborate with the team, with the intent of helping us make more informed and successful decisions. Admittedly, there will be an awful lot for me to learn, but I want nothing more than to help bring consistent, championship calibre football back to Cleveland."

DePodesta also worked for the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres. He has won a division title with all five teams he has worked for.

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